Slow Cooker Apple Spice Dump Cake
Looking for an easy slow cooker dessert that requires almost no effort? This 4-ingredient apple spice dump cake is the perfect answer. With canned apple pie filling, spice cake mix, butter, and cinnamon, you can create a warm, comforting dessert without turning on the oven.
The apple filling becomes tender and bubbly while the cake mix transforms into a buttery, golden topping. The result is a delicious cross between apple cobbler, apple crisp, and spice cake—all made right in your slow cooker.
Serve this easy apple dump cake warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel sauce for an extra-special finish.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Apple Dump Cake
- Only 4 ingredients: Simple pantry staples make this recipe incredibly easy.
- No oven required: Perfect when you want a warm dessert without heating the kitchen.
- Quick preparation: Assemble everything in just a few minutes.
- Perfect comfort food: Warm apples and cinnamon create a cozy homemade flavor.
- Great for gatherings: An easy dessert for holidays, potlucks, family dinners, and parties.
- Minimal cleanup: Everything cooks in one slow cooker.
- Easy to customize: Add nuts, caramel, or your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
- 1 can (21 ounces) apple pie filling
- 1 box (about 15.25 ounces) spice cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
How to Make Slow Cooker Apple Spice Dump Cake
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker
Lightly spray the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray or grease it with a thin layer of butter.
2. Add the Apple Filling
Pour the canned apple pie filling into the bottom of the slow cooker. Spread it evenly.
3. Add the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry spice cake mix evenly over the apple pie filling. Sprinkle the cinnamon over the cake mix.
Do not stir the layers together.
4. Add the Butter
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the entire surface of the cake mix. Try to cover as much of the dry mix as possible.
5. Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until the apples are bubbling and the topping is set and golden around the edges.
Because slow cookers vary, begin checking around the 2 1/2-hour mark.
6. Rest and Serve
Turn off the slow cooker and leave the lid off for about 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the topping to firm slightly.
Spoon the warm apple dump cake into bowls and serve immediately.
Easy Variations
Add Crunch
Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cake mix before adding the melted butter. The nuts add delicious crunch and make this dessert especially good.
Add Caramel
Drizzle warm caramel sauce over individual servings for a rich caramel apple flavor.
Serve With Ice Cream
A scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over the warm apple cake creates the ultimate easy dessert combination.
Adjust the Spice
For a milder flavor, skip the additional cinnamon and allow the spice cake mix to provide all the warm spice flavor.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Dump Cake
- Spread the cake mix evenly so the topping cooks consistently.
- Drizzle the melted butter as evenly as possible over the dry mix.
- Don’t stir the ingredients together. Dump cakes work by layering the ingredients.
- Start checking the cake around 2 1/2 hours because slow cooker temperatures can vary.
- If the edges cook faster than the center, keep a close eye on the cake and switch the cooker to warm when the fruit is bubbling and the topping is cooked.
- Let the finished dessert rest for 10 to 15 minutes before serving for a slightly firmer topping.
How to Store Leftovers
Cover leftover apple dump cake and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place an individual portion in the microwave until warm. Serve with fresh whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or caramel sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make apple dump cake in a slow cooker?
Yes. A slow cooker is an easy way to prepare apple dump cake without using the oven. The apple filling becomes hot and bubbly while the cake topping cooks above it.
Can I use another cake mix?
Yes. Spice cake mix works especially well with apples, but yellow cake mix or vanilla cake mix can also be used for a slightly different flavor.
Can I add nuts?
Absolutely. Pecans and walnuts are excellent additions and provide a crunchy contrast to the soft apples and cake topping.
What is the best topping for apple dump cake?
Vanilla ice cream is a classic choice. Whipped cream and caramel sauce are also delicious.
Recipe at a Glance
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 2 1/2–3 hours
Resting Time: 10–15 minutes
Total Time: About 3 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 8
Category: Dessert
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American
